Bob Odenkirk has reprised his role as the morally flexible lawyer Saul Goodman in a new video released to commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. The short film, which features Odenkirk in character alongside a cameo from Jonathan Banks as Mike Ehrmantraut, emphasizes the relevance of constitutional rights while utilizing the iconic aesthetic of the AMC series Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.
Saul Goodman returns for a constitutional PSA
In a video posted to his official YouTube channel on July 6, 2025, Bob Odenkirk dons the familiar colorful suits and earpiece associated with Saul Goodman. Standing before the recognizable "We the People" wallpaper from his fictional office, Odenkirk’s character highlights foundational American civil liberties.
"Did you know you have rights?" Odenkirk says in the clip. "Sure, they’re old-timey. They were written by a bunch of guys in powdered wigs and knee socks. Boring! But believe it or not, they’re still surprisingly relevant."
The performance serves as a thematic bridge between the character’s legacy and the milestone anniversary of the nation. Odenkirk explicitly references freedoms including speech, assembly, and protection against unreasonable searches. The video concludes with Jonathan Banks appearing as his former character, fixer Mike Ehrmantraut, to deliver the dry endorsement: "I’m Mike, and I approve this message."
Addressing concerns regarding AI
Following the video’s release, series co-creator Peter Gould shared the clip on the social media platform Bluesky. To address immediate speculation from fans regarding the use of generative technology, Gould explicitly clarified, "This is not AI!"
This confirmation serves to reassure audiences that the performance is an authentic, human-led reprisal. The use of deepfake or AI-generated likenesses has become a significant point of contention in the entertainment industry, leading to high-profile labor negotiations, including the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. By preemptively addressing these concerns, the production team highlights the importance of human performance in maintaining the integrity of established fictional characters.
Context of the series legacy
The reappearance of the characters marks a notable moment for the Breaking Bad universe, which concluded its final spin-off, Better Call Saul, in August 2022. During the show’s six-season run, Odenkirk earned six Emmy nominations for his portrayal of Jimmy McGill, the transformation of whom into the persona of Saul Goodman anchored the series.
The video’s tone—mixing legalistic cynicism with a genuine nod to democratic foundations—aligns with the dark humor that defined the franchise. While Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould have moved on to other projects, the enduring popularity of the Breaking Bad world remains high, with the series consistently ranking among the most-watched dramas on streaming platforms.
Key details of the production
- Primary Talent: Bob Odenkirk (Saul Goodman) and Jonathan Banks (Mike Ehrmantraut).
- Production Context: A thematic celebration of the U.S. 250th anniversary, also known as the Semiquincentennial, occurring in 2026.
- Creative Verification: Co-creator Peter Gould confirmed via Bluesky that the video was not produced using artificial intelligence.
- Historical Backdrop: The video utilizes the "We the People" wallpaper, a signature visual element from the Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul production design.